THE GEESE AND THE GHOST

Some have said that this, the first solo output by founding member/ex-guitarist of Genesis is a testimony to the underappreciated contribution of Anthony Phillips on Genesis' "Trespass" Lp of 1970. Others have compared the melodies and feel of "The Geese and the Ghost" to the contemporary outputs by Genesis (1976's "A Trick of the Tail" and 1977's "Wind and Wuthering"). Perhaps the Genesis comparisons are only strengthened by the fact that Mike Rutherford and Phil Collins both appear on Phillip's record. But other than their presence and Phillips' former membership, there's not a lot on "The Geese and the Ghost" that reminds me of Genesis at all, 1970 or 76 or ever! It's classically-tinged baroque guitarwork with some prog sensibilities thrown in. A beautiful thing to listen to, but much as one admires classical music...most songs lack a rock punch or even drums for that matter. The musicianship is exceptional. After leaving Genesis in 1970, Phillips studied and continues to teach classical music theory. All sorts of instruments were utilized, especially impressive in that the album was recorded on a barge! Phil Collins' vocals are heartfelt and subtle, and the reformed writing team of Phillips and Rutherford clearly enjoyed the 12- string guitar interplay. So, the LP is "progressive" in its merging of symphonic compositions with a bit of folk and a lil rock. But the result is so far different than anything in the Genesis catalog that i don't think it's essential for fans of that band.